Answer:
Certainly! Developing an academic staff policy for EIMS (European Institute of Medical Studies) that aligns with Commonwealth standards and focuses on dental education involves several key components. Below is a comprehensive policy outline:
EIMS Academic Staff Policy
1. Introduction
EIMS is committed to maintaining high standards of academic excellence in dental education. This policy outlines the recruitment, appointment, development, and evaluation of academic staff in accordance with Commonwealth rules and the accreditation requirements of the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA).
2. Objectives
- Ensure the recruitment of highly qualified and experienced academic staff.
- Promote continuous professional development.
- Maintain a fair and transparent evaluation process.
- Foster an inclusive and supportive academic environment.
3. Recruitment and Appointment
3.1 Qualifications and Experience
- Lecturers (EQF Level 5): Minimum of a Master's degree in Dentistry or a related field, with at least 3 years of professional experience.
- Senior Lecturers (EQF Level 6): Minimum of a Doctorate in Dentistry or a related field, with at least 5 years of professional experience and a proven track record in teaching and research.
- Professors (EQF Level 7): Minimum of a Doctorate in Dentistry or a related field, with at least 10 years of professional experience, significant contributions to research, and a strong teaching portfolio.
3.2 Recruitment Process
- Open and competitive recruitment process.
- Job advertisements to be published on the EIMS website, academic journals, and other relevant platforms.
- Selection committee to include senior faculty members and external experts.
- Evaluation based on academic qualifications, professional experience, research contributions, and teaching effectiveness.
4. Professional Development
4.1 Continuous Education
- Encourage staff to pursue further qualifications and certifications.
- Provide funding and support for attending conferences, workshops, and seminars.
4.2 Research and Innovation
- Promote and support research activities.
- Provide access to research grants and funding opportunities.
- Encourage publication in peer-reviewed journals and participation in international conferences.
4.3 Teaching Excellence
- Regular workshops and training sessions on innovative teaching methods.
- Peer reviews and feedback sessions to enhance teaching skills.
5. Evaluation and Promotion
5.1 Performance Evaluation
- Annual performance reviews based on teaching effectiveness, research output, and service to the institution.
- Student feedback to be considered in teaching evaluations.
- Self-assessment and peer reviews as part of the evaluation process.
5.2 Promotion Criteria
- Clear and transparent criteria for promotion.
- Consideration of academic qualifications, teaching excellence, research contributions, and service to the institution.
- Promotion committee to include senior faculty members and external experts.
6. Code of Conduct
6.1 Professional Ethics
- Adherence to the highest standards of professional ethics and integrity.
- Commitment to academic freedom and intellectual honesty.
6.2 Inclusivity and Diversity
- Promote an inclusive and diverse academic environment.
- Zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment.
6.3 Collaboration and Teamwork
- Encourage collaboration among staff members.
- Foster a supportive and collegial atmosphere.
7. Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures
7.1 Grievance Handling
- Clear procedures for addressing grievances.
- Confidential and impartial handling of complaints.
7.2 Disciplinary Actions
- Defined process for disciplinary actions in case of misconduct.
- Fair and transparent investigation and resolution process.
8. Conclusion
EIMS is dedicated to fostering an environment of academic excellence and professional growth. This policy aims to ensure that our academic staff are well-qualified, continuously developing, and evaluated fairly, in line with Commonwealth standards and MFHEA accreditation requirements.
This policy should be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains aligned with the latest educational standards and institutional